Discover the Wonders of Monterey Bay Aquarium

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Perdón
  [dees-kool-peh/pehr-dohn]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
  [ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har ehl preh-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [koo-ah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah ehl/lah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

Established in 1984, the Monterey Bay Aquarium was a pioneering project aimed at marine conservation and education. Located on the site of the historic Hovden Fish Company, the aquarium's creation marked a significant shift towards public awareness of oceanic ecosystems. It was a response to growing concerns about the health of marine environments, particularly in the rich waters of Monterey Bay.

Monterey's history is deeply intertwined with its fishing and canning industries, which flourished in the early 20th century. The aquarium's location reflects this legacy, as it was built on the grounds of a former sardine cannery. The decline of these industries in the 1970s prompted a reevaluation of the region's marine resources, leading to the establishment of the aquarium as a means to promote conservation and sustainable practices.

Since its opening, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has been at the forefront of marine research. It has contributed to significant advancements in understanding marine life, particularly with its focus on local species. Educational programs have evolved to engage the public in marine conservation efforts, highlighting the critical importance of protecting ocean health in the face of climate change and overfishing.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium has played a crucial role in marine conservation initiatives, including the development of the Seafood Watch program. Launched in 1999, this program provides consumers with information on sustainable seafood choices, aiming to influence market demand and promote responsible fishing practices. The aquarium's commitment to conservation extends to its involvement in habitat restoration projects and marine protected areas in the region.

The aquarium is not only a center for marine education but also a vital part of the Monterey community. It hosts various cultural events and programs that celebrate the region's maritime heritage and indigenous cultures. Through outreach and partnerships, the aquarium fosters a sense of stewardship among local residents and visitors, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the community and the ocean.

Monterey Bay Aquarium is located along Cannery Row in Monterey, California. If you're arriving by car, take Highway 1 and follow the signs to Monterey. For those using public transport, the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) provides bus services from nearby neighborhoods and cities. The MST Route 1 and Route 2 both stop near the aquarium. If you're coming from the Monterey Peninsula Airport, a taxi or rideshare service is the most convenient option, taking about 10 minutes.

Monterey Bay Aquarium is easily accessible on foot, as it is located in a pedestrian-friendly area. Bicycles are also a popular way to explore Cannery Row and the surrounding coastline, with bike rentals available nearby. The MST buses connect various attractions in Monterey, making it a convenient option for those who prefer public transport. For further travel, consider using rideshare services or renting a car, especially if you plan to visit other areas along the picturesque Big Sur coast.

Monterey is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to remain cautious in certain areas, particularly at night. While Cannery Row is well-lit and frequented by visitors, avoid venturing into the more isolated parts of town alone after dark. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas, so keep your belongings secure. It's advisable to stay away from areas with a reputation for higher crime rates, such as parts of East Monterey.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, located a short drive from the aquarium. Familiarize yourself with the location of the aquarium’s first aid stations, and consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you will be walking a lot. Don’t wear overly casual attire if you plan to dine in nearby upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting nearby religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly or disabled passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a simple 'hello.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and wines. Don’t waste food or drink in public spaces.

To experience Monterey Bay Aquarium like a local, visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the exhibits. Explore the nearby Cannery Row for local shops and eateries that offer fresh seafood and regional specialties. Engage with the aquarium staff during talks and feeding times for insightful information. Don’t forget to walk along the coastal trail for stunning views of the bay and potential wildlife sightings!